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How do conspiracy theories spread on social media platforms?
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conspiracy theory
U.S. Pres. John F. Kennedy and first lady Jacqueline Kennedy minutes before the president was assassinated in Dallas, November 22, 1963.
Conspiracy theories spread rapidly on social media platforms due to the ease with which users can share information with a single click, often without verifying its accuracy. The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has further amplified this spread by enabling the creation of sophisticated deepfakes and manipulated content, which can effectively mislead the public and influence opinions. Exposure to media that promotes conspiracy theories also increases belief in them. These theories often arise during times of widespread anxiety and uncertainty, offering explanations for tragic events by positing secret activities of powerful groups.123